ADC to Presidency: Shettima Was Right — Tinubu Lacks Constitutional Authority to Remove a Governor

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized the Presidency’s response to recent remarks by Vice President Kashim Shettima, describing the clarification issued by Aso Rock as “a mere attempt at political correctness.” The party declared its full support for the Vice President’s assertion that the President of Nigeria lacks constitutional powers to remove an elected governor.

In a strongly worded press statement signed by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC condemned what it described as the “illegal takeover” of governance in Rivers State, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy and federalism.

“The truth must not be lost in the fog of political correctness,” Abdullahi stated. “Vice President Shettima was absolutely right in affirming that the President does not have the power to remove an elected councilor, let alone a sitting governor. That truth is rooted in the Nigerian Constitution.”

The ADC’s reaction comes in the wake of a controversial political crisis in Rivers State, which has sparked allegations of unconstitutional interference by the federal government. The party likened the current situation to a similar episode during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure, when attempts were made to remove then Borno State Governor—now Vice President—Kashim Shettima.

According to the ADC, Shettima’s recent remarks at the book launch of former Attorney General Mohammed Bello Adoke were not gaffes, but a principled reminder of constitutional limits. “When Shettima faced similar threats in 2014, the then Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, stood firm and told President Jonathan that he had no such powers. That position was also upheld by the then Attorney General,” the statement read.

The ADC drew a sharp contrast between the two administrations, stating that while Jonathan respected constitutional boundaries even during a national crisis like the Boko Haram insurgency, the Tinubu administration has opted for “executive overreach” in Rivers State under far less dire circumstances.

“This is not just about history. It is about precedent,” Abdullahi added. “President Tinubu has violated that precedent. The suspension of a duly elected governor is not only unconstitutional—it is authoritarian.”

The ADC demanded an immediate end to what it called “illegal interference” in Rivers State, urging President Tinubu to restore democratic governance and respect constitutional order. The party also called on the President to issue a public apology to Nigerians for what it described as an abuse of power.

“Nigeria is not a monarchy,” the statement concluded. “The President’s powers are not absolute—they are defined by law, shaped by history, and accountable to the people.”

The ADC reaffirmed its commitment to defending democracy, justice, and constitutionalism across the country.